Epidural anesthesia is initiated for a primigravida at 40 weeks gestation who is in active labor. Which assessment has the greatest priority for the practical nurse to monitor during the administration of epidural anesthesia?
Level of pain sensation.
Maternal blood pressure (BP).
Infusion pump and IV site.
Variability of fetal heart rate.
The Correct Answer is B
The greatest priority for the practical nurse to monitor during the administration of epidural anesthesia is maternal blood pressure (BP). Epidural anesthesia can cause maternal hypotension due to vasodilation and decreased venous return, which can result in decreased fetal perfusion and oxygenation. Therefore, it is important for the practical nurse to monitor maternal BP frequently and promptly report any significant changes to the healthcare provider. Options A, C, and D are also important assessments, but they are not the priority in this scenario.
Therefore, options A, C, and D are not answers because they are not the priority assessment during the administration of epidural anesthesia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The pattern of bowel movements is the most important information for the practical nurse (PN) to obtain when assisting with the admission of a 12-month-old child with a history of frequent colds and growth failure who is being tested for a possible diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF). CF can cause thick, sticky mucus to build up in the digestive tract, leading to problems with digestion and absorption of nutrients. This can result in bulky, greasy stools and growth failure.
The number of respiratory infections since birth (Option A) and a description of the child's appetite (Option C) are also important pieces of information, but they are not as critical as the pattern of bowel movements. The number of siblings in the family ( Option B) is not directly relevant to the child's medical condition.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The PN should acknowledge the client's emotional state and allow him to express his feelings while also obtaining more information about the situation. By asking the client to share what he was told by the healthcare provider, the PN can gain a better understanding of the client's knowledge of the disease and provide appropriate education and support. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not address the client's emotional state or provide helpful information to the PN in this situation.
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